Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) introduced its 2025 Holiday Bus on December 4, 2024, aiming to spread festive cheer while supporting foster youth in the region. The initiative, launched at Stanford Sierra Youth & Families in Sacramento, will offer free rides until January 2, 2025. Passengers are encouraged to make donations to benefit programs dedicated to helping foster children.
This year, SacRT has collaborated with Stanford Sierra Youth & Families, a nonprofit organization that serves over 2,800 foster youth, providing crucial mental health support and maintaining connections among siblings and relatives. The majority of the youth supported by the organization are teenagers, who often face unique challenges during the holiday season.
Community Engagement and Support Initiatives
The Holiday Bus serves not only as a mode of free transportation but also as a platform to raise awareness about foster youth needs in the community. SacRT officials emphasized the importance of encouraging community members to consider adopting a foster child, volunteering in mentorship programs, or contributing in other meaningful ways.
This holiday season, residents will have the opportunity to help “Stuff the Bus” with toys and gift cards intended for foster youth. This event is scheduled for December 6, 2024, from 08:00 to 12:00 at the Sunrise Light Rail Station in Rancho Cordova. The initiative aims to ensure that foster children receive gifts that bring joy and support during the holidays.
In addition to the donation drive, the Holiday Bus will participate in the upcoming Santa Parade around Capitol Park, set for December 13, 2024, at 10:00. This event will further highlight the importance of community involvement in fostering a supportive environment for local youth.
For those interested in contributing to this cause, further information and donation options can be found on the SacRT website. Through these efforts, SacRT aims to not only provide free rides but also to foster a spirit of giving and community support during the holiday season.
